Definition

To take something apart or remove its parts, often in a careful or systematic way.

Example

The workers will dismantle the old machinery before installing the new one.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear they're going to dismantle that old playground in the park?

Really? I loved playing there as a kid!

Yeah, I guess it's been falling apart for years now.

True, but I wish they would have kept some of the classic swings.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dismantle → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "mantel" (from Old French *mantel*, meaning covering or cloak). The word describes the act of taking apart or removing the covering from something.

Memory Tip

Think of taking something 'apart' ('dis-') and removing its 'covering' ('mantel') — that's why dismantle means to take something apart.

Visually Confused Words